I’ve met plenty of serious wines with serious names that would even scare a ‘stiff upper lip’. Every now and then it’s nice to meet one that brings a smile before the glass is even raised. Raidis Estate’s Cheeky Goat does that right from the start just by reading the label. A nod to the mischievous characters roaming their patch of Coonawarra.
Let’s face it, there’s always one goat that won’t behave, the one that tests its owner in its own cheeky way and this wine carries a little of that spirit in the best possible way. Playful on the label? Yes. Calm in the glass? Yes. A reminder that not every wine needs to take itself too seriously. It may be Cheeky by name, but it is charming by nature, and a Pinot Gris that proves personality can be bottled and poured into your glass.
Live Simply. Laugh Often. Wine a Lot.
Region: Coonawarra, S.A. Price: $28 Source: Generous Gift
It opens with great aromatics, the kind you expect from good Pinot Gris with ripe pear leading the way. The palate follows through on that promise, carrying the same ripe pear character alongside a lovely texture and mouthfeel from the skin contact and subtle barrel work. There’s a gentle richness, but it never tips into heaviness, the wine staying balanced and fresh. A little spice threads through the mid‑palate, adding interest without any distraction. It finishes dry, fresh, and with good length. The kind of Gris that makes you pause for a moment, appreciate its quality, before going back for another taste.
